A Tasmanian primary school’s decision to remove the word “Christmas” from the names of several end-of-year events has sparked a political row, with Premier Jeremy Rockliff calling for government intervention.
Trevallyn Primary School in Launceston told parents it would rename its annual raffle from “Christmas on the Hill” to “Holiday on the Hill”. Parents have also claimed that “Secret Santa” had become “Holiday Gifting” and that traditional carols would be replaced by contemporary pop songs.
The school said the changes were intended to reflect the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of its pupils and promote a strong sense of community.
One father who complained said his daughters were “shattered that they couldn’t do Christmas carols at the end-of-year (celebrations)”. He said inclusion was important but “should not come at the expense of our own cultural traditions and celebrations”.
In an email to the school, he said families could hold different beliefs while still taking part respectfully in one another’s celebrations.
Acting principal Jane Hudson said the decision was intended to ensure “every child can participate fully”. She said the focus was on celebrating pupils, their progress and the community within the school, rather than abandoning any particular tradition.
Mr Rockliff wrote to Tasmania’s Education Department secretary, Ginna Webster, after the dispute became public. In a social media post, he said he had been made aware of “efforts made to remove all references to Christmas in end-of-year school celebrations”.
“Whatever your religion or heritage, Christmas is part of our way of life,” he said. “Acknowledging other traditions is important. But that’s not a reason to abandon our own.”
The Premier added: “Christmas is a time that brings us together. And our school kids should be encouraged to sing Christmas carols whenever they please.”
His intervention was criticised by Mat Grining, president of the Tasmania Principal Association, who described it as an “absolute overreach”. He said the event had already been discussed by the school’s parent committee.
Brian Wightman, the Australian Education Union’s Tasmanian state manager, said the public criticism had unfairly exposed school staff to scrutiny. “The consequences of this are significant and the psychological harm that the premier has caused is reprehensible,” he told ABC Hobart, calling on Mr Rockliff to contact the principal, apologise and resolve the dispute.
Mr Rockliff later defended his comments, saying he had been “expressing a view in a very measured way”. He added: “I condemn any attack on any individual or any particular school very clearly, and that’s not what I’ve done.”
One Nation Tasmanian Senate candidate Lee Hanson also condemned the school’s decision, describing it as “nonsense” and saying Australia should not change its traditions “to satisfy the demands of political correctness”.
Christmas carols and Santa to remain
The school newsletter that triggered the controversy still contains several references to Christmas, including a trail race notice featuring a Christmas tree.
A Department of Education spokesperson said planning for the 2026 event was continuing, with feedback from the 2025 celebration being considered. Discussions had taken place at a School Association meeting about ensuring the event remained welcoming and inclusive.
The spokesperson said pupils would work with teachers to choose Christmas-themed items to perform. The planned format would include class performances, Christmas carols and a visit from Santa Claus, consistent with previous years.
“The focus remains on celebrating student achievement and bringing the school together in a positive and inclusive way,” the spokesperson said.
